Drivers spent hours stuck in the seven miles of queues and the road did not reopen until the early hours of this morning.

The two motorcyclists were rushed to hospital after coming off their motorbikes, which were left in pieces scattered across the A31. One man later died from his injuries.

There were chaotic scenes as hundreds of motorists were left trapped on the notorious stretch of road for more than five hours as the roads were closed as police investigations got under way.

But the mayhem on the roads began much earlier when the runaway horse brought traffic on the A31 to a standstill for motorists during the evening rush hour.

The drama first started to unfold just after 5pm when police received reports of a horse on the loose on the A31, close to Picket Post.

Chaos ensued as officers took to the road on foot to search for the runaway nag, while motorists heading westbound were forced to a standstill as the search got under way.

Frustrated drivers had no option but to sit in their cars and wait as they watched officers with flashlights scouring through bushes and undergrowth for the lost horse.

But an hour later, it seemed as though they had everything under control. The traffic began to move and two motorcycles were seen surging forward in the traffic.

However, moments later, those motorists relieved to be moving were brought to an abrupt halt and there they remained for several hours as emergency services flocked to the area from all directions.

The two motorcyclists were taken to different hospitals where police last night said one of them had died. Police last night described the surviving man’s condition as “serious”.

Miles of tailbacks began to build up and as drivers lucky enough not to be trapped on the stretch of closed road were urged to avoid the area. All other routes in the surrounding areas, such as Lyndhurst, quickly got clogged with traffic, causing huge tailbacks as people tried to get home.

Drivers started to vent their anger on social media because they were getting no information from the emergency services.

Some emerged from their cars, walking towards the front of the queue in the hope of finding out what was causing the delay, while others just sat waiting with their engines running, too cold to switch them off.

One motorist even hopped out with his Spaniel and used the time to take it for a walk.

On social media people were contacting the Daily Echo. One driver, Paul Smale, tweeted “can trapped people be turned around please? Highways authorities saying 12am reopening. Thoughts with victims. Very sad.”

Another stuck motorist Fred Austin added “stuck on the A31 moved about 100yrds in three hours #nightmare”.

As news started to drip through at around 7.30pm that the road was likely to be closed until midnight, many feared they would be spending the night in their cars, but to their relief police were able to get them out.

Daily Echo editor Ian Murray was just one of the motorists stuck in his car for more than three hours, and spoke of his relief as the traffic slowly began to move.

He said: “Police created a route through the debris left by two motorcyclists that had crashed.

“Drivers had to drive care fully through scattered parts of the bikes using both lanes, with police using flashlights to direct the traffic.

“The two bikes, one yellow and one red, were lying on their sides, on opposite sides of the road on the westbound side of the dual carriageway, with a great deal of small sections of the machines scattered everywhere.”

Others, fed up of waiting without any information from officers, began turning around and driving the wrong way up the carriageway in an attempt to get home, sparking further criticism for the police’s handling of the incident.

Jonathan Covill tweeted: “A31 trapped cars now doing U-turns and going the wrong way as no police instructions.

“Accident clearly awful but Hampshire police making situation worse”.

Colin Draper, from the Verderers of the New Forest, the organisation that works to protect and administer the area’s agricultural communing practices, said police and agisters were investigating what happened.

He said: “We now that there was a pony involved and it appears to have got onto the carriageway from the forest.

“We’re obviously very anxious to know how it got there, but at the moment we just don’t know.”

A Highways Agency spokesman said: “Our sympathies are with the family and friends of those involved in the incident that took place on the A31 near Ringwood last night.

“An investigation into the cause of the incident is being carried out by Hampshire Police and, as such, it would be inappropriate for the Highways Agency to comment on the cause.”

The Daily Echo has also asked for an update on safety measures for the road.

The crash happened on the same stretch of road that claimed the life of 16-year-old hairdresser Jade Clark in February last year.

The teenager was struck by the car of Brian Hampton as she travelled along the busy road near Ringwood, further west from the scene of last night’s accident.

Cruel Hampton, himself a father-of-two, briefly stopped at the scene before driving off, which left the youngster exposed to fast-moving traffic.

She was struck by one or more vehicles and died at the scene from her injuries.

Her death sparked calls for the road’s speed limit to be reduced from 70mph to 50mph, with councillors, MPs and the Police Crime Commissioner Simon Hayes heading to Government to appeal for the change. But their hopes were crushed when Transport Minister Stephen Hammond rejected their calls.

Comments (31)

RIP to the chap involved, and I hope the other recovers ok. It must have been awful for those involved.

P.S. DE - this is a totally disjointed and badly reading article. No wonder there's no journalist's name to which it can be attributed!

RIP to the chap involved, and I hope the other recovers ok. It must have been awful for those involved.
P.S. DE - this is a totally disjointed and badly reading article. No wonder there's no journalist's name to which it can be attributed!Ozmosis

Condolences to the familes.
Given that the roads are shut for hours, and I am sure the road is blocked off to traffic from the junction before, surely the Highways Agency can turn the traffic around and let them get off at the previous junction.

Condolences to the familes.
Given that the roads are shut for hours, and I am sure the road is blocked off to traffic from the junction before, surely the Highways Agency can turn the traffic around and let them get off at the previous junction.hulla baloo

While not wishing to belittle the seriousness of this incident combined with loss of life, arriving at work this morning several of my colleagues were caught up in the delays on the A31/M27. From what I am being told, the Police appear to be the ones who acted both inappropriately and ineffectively, reflecting the article above and comments appearing on social media.

The M27 was closed westbound from Junction 2/A326, but once the seriousness of the incident became apparent there were no efforts to divert traffic at Junction 1, the Castle Malwood junction etc. until much later in the evening. Then the Police started turning traffic around on the westbound carriageway, rather than use the various junctions, which added to the problem.

But the biggest frustration seems to be the lack of information between the Police, Highways Agency and the many drivers who had absolutely no idea on what was happening. Questions need to be asked and questions need to be answered!

While not wishing to belittle the seriousness of this incident combined with loss of life, arriving at work this morning several of my colleagues were caught up in the delays on the A31/M27. From what I am being told, the Police appear to be the ones who acted both inappropriately and ineffectively, reflecting the article above and comments appearing on social media.
The M27 was closed westbound from Junction 2/A326, but once the seriousness of the incident became apparent there were no efforts to divert traffic at Junction 1, the Castle Malwood junction etc. until much later in the evening. Then the Police started turning traffic around on the westbound carriageway, rather than use the various junctions, which added to the problem.
But the biggest frustration seems to be the lack of information between the Police, Highways Agency and the many drivers who had absolutely no idea on what was happening. Questions need to be asked and questions need to be answered!eurogordi

How is this tragic incident connected with the one 5 miles further up the road in a different county nearly a year ago? Many people sadly lose their lives on roads all over our area, all roads can be dangerous and accidents happen.

There may well be problems with speed on the A31 but in rush hour you're very unlikely to be doing more than 50mph along there anyway and if a horse wanders out in front of you it's going to end badly at any speed.

My sincere condolences to the family of the biker who didn't make it home last night and hoping the other biker makes a recovery.

How is this tragic incident connected with the one 5 miles further up the road in a different county nearly a year ago? Many people sadly lose their lives on roads all over our area, all roads can be dangerous and accidents happen.
There may well be problems with speed on the A31 but in rush hour you're very unlikely to be doing more than 50mph along there anyway and if a horse wanders out in front of you it's going to end badly at any speed.
My sincere condolences to the family of the biker who didn't make it home last night and hoping the other biker makes a recovery.wwozzer

I hope it wasn't the bike with the very unusual 4 headlight layout that came past me at 100mph plus about 12 minutes prior to our car getting halted by the very early part of the traffic stopping.
Which sadly illustrates the point that you may put as many speed limits as you have room on the roadside for but whether they re obeyed is another matter

I hope it wasn't the bike with the very unusual 4 headlight layout that came past me at 100mph plus about 12 minutes prior to our car getting halted by the very early part of the traffic stopping.
Which sadly illustrates the point that you may put as many speed limits as you have room on the roadside for but whether they re obeyed is another matterDai Rear

Sorry for the loss of life, some of the people should be thankful it wasnt them, so what you got stuck in traffic it delayed you, but your alive, its all to easy to criticise those emergency services involved.

For those stupid idiots who decided to turn themselves around without authorisation your lucky you didnt hit one of the many standing outside their vehicles. All of you grow up and think how lucky you have been to wake this morning.

Sorry for the loss of life, some of the people should be thankful it wasnt them, so what you got stuck in traffic it delayed you, but your alive, its all to easy to criticise those emergency services involved.
For those stupid idiots who decided to turn themselves around without authorisation your lucky you didnt hit one of the many standing outside their vehicles. All of you grow up and think how lucky you have been to wake this morning.999medic

Drivers moaning about being stuck... But one has to remember 2 people were seriously injured, and one of them so far has lost their life.
The Police require to close the road to preserve the scene and protect drivers from further accidents.
If cars had been allowed passed and they damaged a tyre, which blew a few miles past the after the accident when they were at speed again, causing a 2nd accident, the public would be shouting the odds as to why cars were allowed through.
The Police have a tricky job to do, and it seems these days whatever they do, they are criticised because of it.
The speed is never the problem with accidents on this road, the problem is people changing lanes without looking in their mirrors, which I can vouch for as I have seen it many times, with others staying in the outside lane, with others passing them on the inside lane as that is clear of traffic...
Drivers in the rush hour, have not respect for others on the road, and are just hell bent on getting home or to work in the morning.
Get drivers to respect each other and then these problems would be far les, but todays life style everyone is in a rush to get anywhere.. Too much pressure from society in general

Drivers moaning about being stuck... But one has to remember 2 people were seriously injured, and one of them so far has lost their life.
The Police require to close the road to preserve the scene and protect drivers from further accidents.
If cars had been allowed passed and they damaged a tyre, which blew a few miles past the after the accident when they were at speed again, causing a 2nd accident, the public would be shouting the odds as to why cars were allowed through.
The Police have a tricky job to do, and it seems these days whatever they do, they are criticised because of it.
The speed is never the problem with accidents on this road, the problem is people changing lanes without looking in their mirrors, which I can vouch for as I have seen it many times, with others staying in the outside lane, with others passing them on the inside lane as that is clear of traffic...
Drivers in the rush hour, have not respect for others on the road, and are just hell bent on getting home or to work in the morning.
Get drivers to respect each other and then these problems would be far les, but todays life style everyone is in a rush to get anywhere.. Too much pressure from society in generalsotonbusdriver

eurogordi wrote:
While not wishing to belittle the seriousness of this incident combined with loss of life, arriving at work this morning several of my colleagues were caught up in the delays on the A31/M27. From what I am being told, the Police appear to be the ones who acted both inappropriately and ineffectively, reflecting the article above and comments appearing on social media. The M27 was closed westbound from Junction 2/A326, but once the seriousness of the incident became apparent there were no efforts to divert traffic at Junction 1, the Castle Malwood junction etc. until much later in the evening. Then the Police started turning traffic around on the westbound carriageway, rather than use the various junctions, which added to the problem. But the biggest frustration seems to be the lack of information between the Police, Highways Agency and the many drivers who had absolutely no idea on what was happening. Questions need to be asked and questions need to be answered!

I agree. The coppers should have been wandering through the traffic, knocking on each car window, telling us precisely what was going on. And maybe handing out a few cuppas while they were at it. After all, I doubt they had anything else to do.

[quote][p][bold]eurogordi[/bold] wrote:
While not wishing to belittle the seriousness of this incident combined with loss of life, arriving at work this morning several of my colleagues were caught up in the delays on the A31/M27. From what I am being told, the Police appear to be the ones who acted both inappropriately and ineffectively, reflecting the article above and comments appearing on social media. The M27 was closed westbound from Junction 2/A326, but once the seriousness of the incident became apparent there were no efforts to divert traffic at Junction 1, the Castle Malwood junction etc. until much later in the evening. Then the Police started turning traffic around on the westbound carriageway, rather than use the various junctions, which added to the problem. But the biggest frustration seems to be the lack of information between the Police, Highways Agency and the many drivers who had absolutely no idea on what was happening. Questions need to be asked and questions need to be answered![/p][/quote]I agree. The coppers should have been wandering through the traffic, knocking on each car window, telling us precisely what was going on. And maybe handing out a few cuppas while they were at it. After all, I doubt they had anything else to do.foresthorse

Unless you were stuck in that traffic, like I was, from 6pm til 1am I don't think you can understand how it felt. Dark, cold, uncomfortable and no idea if you're spending the night in the car surrounded by strangers is not pleasant. In the 7 hours I was sat there i didn't see anyone turn themselves around - the majority waiting for the police escort.

Unless you were stuck in that traffic, like I was, from 6pm til 1am I don't think you can understand how it felt. Dark, cold, uncomfortable and no idea if you're spending the night in the car surrounded by strangers is not pleasant. In the 7 hours I was sat there i didn't see anyone turn themselves around - the majority waiting for the police escort.ClaireEByrne

ClaireEByrne wrote:
Unless you were stuck in that traffic, like I was, from 6pm til 1am I don't think you can understand how it felt. Dark, cold, uncomfortable and no idea if you're spending the night in the car surrounded by strangers is not pleasant. In the 7 hours I was sat there i didn't see anyone turn themselves around - the majority waiting for the police escort.

Yep. I don't see why being unhappy about being stuck in traffic makes you insensitive. One can still be sympathetic.

[quote][p][bold]ClaireEByrne[/bold] wrote:
Unless you were stuck in that traffic, like I was, from 6pm til 1am I don't think you can understand how it felt. Dark, cold, uncomfortable and no idea if you're spending the night in the car surrounded by strangers is not pleasant. In the 7 hours I was sat there i didn't see anyone turn themselves around - the majority waiting for the police escort.[/p][/quote]Yep. I don't see why being unhappy about being stuck in traffic makes you insensitive. One can still be sympathetic.gilbertratchet

It should be another police force investigating this as the crash happened after Hants Police supposedly had control of the situation and were managing traffic.. Very sad to see the two motorcyclists crash and one to lose his life.

I waited 7 hours patiently contemplating how awful for the men and their families.

However there was chaos behind on the A31 causing jams both ways on the same carriageway. No info or instructions from the police during the incident until we were turned back round at 12.50 nor proper statements from them during the incident on local media.

It should definitely be another force investigating

It should be another police force investigating this as the crash happened after Hants Police supposedly had control of the situation and were managing traffic.. Very sad to see the two motorcyclists crash and one to lose his life.
I waited 7 hours patiently contemplating how awful for the men and their families.
However there was chaos behind on the A31 causing jams both ways on the same carriageway. No info or instructions from the police during the incident until we were turned back round at 12.50 nor proper statements from them during the incident on local media.
It should definitely be another force investigatingRobfw68

sotonbusdriver wrote:
Drivers moaning about being stuck... But one has to remember 2 people were seriously injured, and one of them so far has lost their life.
The Police require to close the road to preserve the scene and protect drivers from further accidents.
If cars had been allowed passed and they damaged a tyre, which blew a few miles past the after the accident when they were at speed again, causing a 2nd accident, the public would be shouting the odds as to why cars were allowed through.
The Police have a tricky job to do, and it seems these days whatever they do, they are criticised because of it.
The speed is never the problem with accidents on this road, the problem is people changing lanes without looking in their mirrors, which I can vouch for as I have seen it many times, with others staying in the outside lane, with others passing them on the inside lane as that is clear of traffic...
Drivers in the rush hour, have not respect for others on the road, and are just hell bent on getting home or to work in the morning.
Get drivers to respect each other and then these problems would be far les, but todays life style everyone is in a rush to get anywhere.. Too much pressure from society in general

they should nt need to close it for that length of time on a main artery to the west

[quote][p][bold]sotonbusdriver[/bold] wrote:
Drivers moaning about being stuck... But one has to remember 2 people were seriously injured, and one of them so far has lost their life.
The Police require to close the road to preserve the scene and protect drivers from further accidents.
If cars had been allowed passed and they damaged a tyre, which blew a few miles past the after the accident when they were at speed again, causing a 2nd accident, the public would be shouting the odds as to why cars were allowed through.
The Police have a tricky job to do, and it seems these days whatever they do, they are criticised because of it.
The speed is never the problem with accidents on this road, the problem is people changing lanes without looking in their mirrors, which I can vouch for as I have seen it many times, with others staying in the outside lane, with others passing them on the inside lane as that is clear of traffic...
Drivers in the rush hour, have not respect for others on the road, and are just hell bent on getting home or to work in the morning.
Get drivers to respect each other and then these problems would be far les, but todays life style everyone is in a rush to get anywhere.. Too much pressure from society in general[/p][/quote]they should nt need to close it for that length of time on a main artery to the westmickey01

sotonbusdriver wrote:
Drivers moaning about being stuck... But one has to remember 2 people were seriously injured, and one of them so far has lost their life.
The Police require to close the road to preserve the scene and protect drivers from further accidents.
If cars had been allowed passed and they damaged a tyre, which blew a few miles past the after the accident when they were at speed again, causing a 2nd accident, the public would be shouting the odds as to why cars were allowed through.
The Police have a tricky job to do, and it seems these days whatever they do, they are criticised because of it.
The speed is never the problem with accidents on this road, the problem is people changing lanes without looking in their mirrors, which I can vouch for as I have seen it many times, with others staying in the outside lane, with others passing them on the inside lane as that is clear of traffic...
Drivers in the rush hour, have not respect for others on the road, and are just hell bent on getting home or to work in the morning.
Get drivers to respect each other and then these problems would be far les, but todays life style everyone is in a rush to get anywhere.. Too much pressure from society in general

they should nt need to close it for that length of time on a main artery to the west

how DARE a person die, and the Police try to do a thorough investigation.

[quote][p][bold]mickey01[/bold] wrote:
[quote][p][bold]sotonbusdriver[/bold] wrote:
Drivers moaning about being stuck... But one has to remember 2 people were seriously injured, and one of them so far has lost their life.
The Police require to close the road to preserve the scene and protect drivers from further accidents.
If cars had been allowed passed and they damaged a tyre, which blew a few miles past the after the accident when they were at speed again, causing a 2nd accident, the public would be shouting the odds as to why cars were allowed through.
The Police have a tricky job to do, and it seems these days whatever they do, they are criticised because of it.
The speed is never the problem with accidents on this road, the problem is people changing lanes without looking in their mirrors, which I can vouch for as I have seen it many times, with others staying in the outside lane, with others passing them on the inside lane as that is clear of traffic...
Drivers in the rush hour, have not respect for others on the road, and are just hell bent on getting home or to work in the morning.
Get drivers to respect each other and then these problems would be far les, but todays life style everyone is in a rush to get anywhere.. Too much pressure from society in general[/p][/quote]they should nt need to close it for that length of time on a main artery to the west[/p][/quote]how DARE a person die, and the Police try to do a thorough investigation.bridgey

Sorry to those that have commented the same but frankly the conversation from most and the writing of this article is awful.

I was involved in the traffic, About half a mile from the actual scene of the accident so I too was stuck there. Yes frustration was there at first considering we'd been stopped already at that point but as soon as you see the group of ambulances and paramedics racing down the centre of everyone that frustration quickly disappears.

This unfortunate accident happened and frankly complaining that you were stuck in the traffic, deciding to turn around of your own accord because your impatient & questioning the actions of the emergency services is appalling. The persons involved wanted to get back home too that night & they never made it, the fact you lost 3,5 or even 7 hours of your life stuck in traffic is nothing compared to what they and there families lost.

Sorry to those that have commented the same but frankly the conversation from most and the writing of this article is awful.
I was involved in the traffic, About half a mile from the actual scene of the accident so I too was stuck there. Yes frustration was there at first considering we'd been stopped already at that point but as soon as you see the group of ambulances and paramedics racing down the centre of everyone that frustration quickly disappears.
This unfortunate accident happened and frankly complaining that you were stuck in the traffic, deciding to turn around of your own accord because your impatient & questioning the actions of the emergency services is appalling. The persons involved wanted to get back home too that night & they never made it, the fact you lost 3,5 or even 7 hours of your life stuck in traffic is nothing compared to what they and there families lost.acesquirrel

The tragedy behind this incident is indeed sad, but it doesn't stop being stuck in traffic for 7 hours from being a miserable experience. It's not as if anyone is saying "selfish sod dying like that and holding me up". I doubt if any of you would be sat there, happy to be stuck in traffic for 7 hours.

The tragedy behind this incident is indeed sad, but it doesn't stop being stuck in traffic for 7 hours from being a miserable experience. It's not as if anyone is saying "selfish sod dying like that and holding me up". I doubt if any of you would be sat there, happy to be stuck in traffic for 7 hours.gilbertratchet

sotonbusdriver wrote:
Drivers moaning about being stuck... But one has to remember 2 people were seriously injured, and one of them so far has lost their life.
The Police require to close the road to preserve the scene and protect drivers from further accidents.
If cars had been allowed passed and they damaged a tyre, which blew a few miles past the after the accident when they were at speed again, causing a 2nd accident, the public would be shouting the odds as to why cars were allowed through.
The Police have a tricky job to do, and it seems these days whatever they do, they are criticised because of it.
The speed is never the problem with accidents on this road, the problem is people changing lanes without looking in their mirrors, which I can vouch for as I have seen it many times, with others staying in the outside lane, with others passing them on the inside lane as that is clear of traffic...
Drivers in the rush hour, have not respect for others on the road, and are just hell bent on getting home or to work in the morning.
Get drivers to respect each other and then these problems would be far les, but todays life style everyone is in a rush to get anywhere.. Too much pressure from society in general

they should nt need to close it for that length of time on a main artery to the west

They do, unfortunately. It's potentially a crime scene.

[quote][p][bold]mickey01[/bold] wrote:
[quote][p][bold]sotonbusdriver[/bold] wrote:
Drivers moaning about being stuck... But one has to remember 2 people were seriously injured, and one of them so far has lost their life.
The Police require to close the road to preserve the scene and protect drivers from further accidents.
If cars had been allowed passed and they damaged a tyre, which blew a few miles past the after the accident when they were at speed again, causing a 2nd accident, the public would be shouting the odds as to why cars were allowed through.
The Police have a tricky job to do, and it seems these days whatever they do, they are criticised because of it.
The speed is never the problem with accidents on this road, the problem is people changing lanes without looking in their mirrors, which I can vouch for as I have seen it many times, with others staying in the outside lane, with others passing them on the inside lane as that is clear of traffic...
Drivers in the rush hour, have not respect for others on the road, and are just hell bent on getting home or to work in the morning.
Get drivers to respect each other and then these problems would be far les, but todays life style everyone is in a rush to get anywhere.. Too much pressure from society in general[/p][/quote]they should nt need to close it for that length of time on a main artery to the west[/p][/quote]They do, unfortunately. It's potentially a crime scene.gilbertratchet

I too was caught up in the traffic for a number of hours. My thoughts and prayers are with the families involved.
What I can't understand is why did the police close the road to catch the horse at 5.30pm then reopen one lane at 6.15pm when it was evident they hadn't found the animal (they were still hunting in the bushes with torches when I passed 2 mins later) only for the motorcyclists (who were at the front of the queue once the road was closed the first time) to head off and then get hit by a horse only 3/4 miles up the road.
I was near the front of the queue on both road closures and can't help thinking that if the Police had conducted a proper search and had not opened the road then maybe the motorcyclists would've made it home safely.

I too was caught up in the traffic for a number of hours. My thoughts and prayers are with the families involved.
What I can't understand is why did the police close the road to catch the horse at 5.30pm then reopen one lane at 6.15pm when it was evident they hadn't found the animal (they were still hunting in the bushes with torches when I passed 2 mins later) only for the motorcyclists (who were at the front of the queue once the road was closed the first time) to head off and then get hit by a horse only 3/4 miles up the road.
I was near the front of the queue on both road closures and can't help thinking that if the Police had conducted a proper search and had not opened the road then maybe the motorcyclists would've made it home safely.Beetlecrazy

Beetlecrazy wrote:
I too was caught up in the traffic for a number of hours. My thoughts and prayers are with the families involved.
What I can't understand is why did the police close the road to catch the horse at 5.30pm then reopen one lane at 6.15pm when it was evident they hadn't found the animal (they were still hunting in the bushes with torches when I passed 2 mins later) only for the motorcyclists (who were at the front of the queue once the road was closed the first time) to head off and then get hit by a horse only 3/4 miles up the road.
I was near the front of the queue on both road closures and can't help thinking that if the Police had conducted a proper search and had not opened the road then maybe the motorcyclists would've made it home safely.

They were probably only too aware of how much mebers of the public moan about being held up. Therefore, they probably tried to do thebest they could in order not to have to hold up traffic for too long.

The problem is that most people have no grasp on the enormity of the job involved when dealing with and investigating a fatal crash. Luckily for all of you, you didn't have to run to the front of the queue to see or touch anything that no person should ever have to see or touch.

People don't pay enough attention or show enough care when travelling in the right direction, so imagine the chaos if everyone were to turn around and head back the wrong way on a dual carriageway/ motorway. A clear case of dangerous driving to answer I would say!

Maybe after the next fatal crash the Police should just sweep it all to the side and re-open the road to keep us all happy (that was sarcasm!).

[quote][p][bold]Beetlecrazy[/bold] wrote:
I too was caught up in the traffic for a number of hours. My thoughts and prayers are with the families involved.
What I can't understand is why did the police close the road to catch the horse at 5.30pm then reopen one lane at 6.15pm when it was evident they hadn't found the animal (they were still hunting in the bushes with torches when I passed 2 mins later) only for the motorcyclists (who were at the front of the queue once the road was closed the first time) to head off and then get hit by a horse only 3/4 miles up the road.
I was near the front of the queue on both road closures and can't help thinking that if the Police had conducted a proper search and had not opened the road then maybe the motorcyclists would've made it home safely.[/p][/quote]They were probably only too aware of how much mebers of the public moan about being held up. Therefore, they probably tried to do thebest they could in order not to have to hold up traffic for too long.
The problem is that most people have no grasp on the enormity of the job involved when dealing with and investigating a fatal crash. Luckily for all of you, you didn't have to run to the front of the queue to see or touch anything that no person should ever have to see or touch.
People don't pay enough attention or show enough care when travelling in the right direction, so imagine the chaos if everyone were to turn around and head back the wrong way on a dual carriageway/ motorway. A clear case of dangerous driving to answer I would say!
Maybe after the next fatal crash the Police should just sweep it all to the side and re-open the road to keep us all happy (that was sarcasm!).MPOV

Beetlecrazy wrote:
I too was caught up in the traffic for a number of hours. My thoughts and prayers are with the families involved.
What I can't understand is why did the police close the road to catch the horse at 5.30pm then reopen one lane at 6.15pm when it was evident they hadn't found the animal (they were still hunting in the bushes with torches when I passed 2 mins later) only for the motorcyclists (who were at the front of the queue once the road was closed the first time) to head off and then get hit by a horse only 3/4 miles up the road.
I was near the front of the queue on both road closures and can't help thinking that if the Police had conducted a proper search and had not opened the road then maybe the motorcyclists would've made it home safely.

They were probably only too aware of how much mebers of the public moan about being held up. Therefore, they probably tried to do thebest they could in order not to have to hold up traffic for too long.

The problem is that most people have no grasp on the enormity of the job involved when dealing with and investigating a fatal crash. Luckily for all of you, you didn't have to run to the front of the queue to see or touch anything that no person should ever have to see or touch.

People don't pay enough attention or show enough care when travelling in the right direction, so imagine the chaos if everyone were to turn around and head back the wrong way on a dual carriageway/ motorway. A clear case of dangerous driving to answer I would say!

Maybe after the next fatal crash the Police should just sweep it all to the side and re-open the road to keep us all happy (that was sarcasm!).

What makes you think people have no grasp on the enormity of the job? Understanding the reason behind a problem doesn't make the problem go away. Being frustrated is an emotional response, it's not like people DECIDE to feel it. Get a grip.

[quote][p][bold]MPOV[/bold] wrote:
[quote][p][bold]Beetlecrazy[/bold] wrote:
I too was caught up in the traffic for a number of hours. My thoughts and prayers are with the families involved.
What I can't understand is why did the police close the road to catch the horse at 5.30pm then reopen one lane at 6.15pm when it was evident they hadn't found the animal (they were still hunting in the bushes with torches when I passed 2 mins later) only for the motorcyclists (who were at the front of the queue once the road was closed the first time) to head off and then get hit by a horse only 3/4 miles up the road.
I was near the front of the queue on both road closures and can't help thinking that if the Police had conducted a proper search and had not opened the road then maybe the motorcyclists would've made it home safely.[/p][/quote]They were probably only too aware of how much mebers of the public moan about being held up. Therefore, they probably tried to do thebest they could in order not to have to hold up traffic for too long.
The problem is that most people have no grasp on the enormity of the job involved when dealing with and investigating a fatal crash. Luckily for all of you, you didn't have to run to the front of the queue to see or touch anything that no person should ever have to see or touch.
People don't pay enough attention or show enough care when travelling in the right direction, so imagine the chaos if everyone were to turn around and head back the wrong way on a dual carriageway/ motorway. A clear case of dangerous driving to answer I would say!
Maybe after the next fatal crash the Police should just sweep it all to the side and re-open the road to keep us all happy (that was sarcasm!).[/p][/quote]What makes you think people have no grasp on the enormity of the job? Understanding the reason behind a problem doesn't make the problem go away. Being frustrated is an emotional response, it's not like people DECIDE to feel it. Get a grip.gilbertratchet

Beetlecrazy wrote:
I too was caught up in the traffic for a number of hours. My thoughts and prayers are with the families involved.
What I can't understand is why did the police close the road to catch the horse at 5.30pm then reopen one lane at 6.15pm when it was evident they hadn't found the animal (they were still hunting in the bushes with torches when I passed 2 mins later) only for the motorcyclists (who were at the front of the queue once the road was closed the first time) to head off and then get hit by a horse only 3/4 miles up the road.
I was near the front of the queue on both road closures and can't help thinking that if the Police had conducted a proper search and had not opened the road then maybe the motorcyclists would've made it home safely.

They were probably only too aware of how much mebers of the public moan about being held up. Therefore, they probably tried to do thebest they could in order not to have to hold up traffic for too long.

The problem is that most people have no grasp on the enormity of the job involved when dealing with and investigating a fatal crash. Luckily for all of you, you didn't have to run to the front of the queue to see or touch anything that no person should ever have to see or touch.

People don't pay enough attention or show enough care when travelling in the right direction, so imagine the chaos if everyone were to turn around and head back the wrong way on a dual carriageway/ motorway. A clear case of dangerous driving to answer I would say!

Maybe after the next fatal crash the Police should just sweep it all to the side and re-open the road to keep us all happy (that was sarcasm!).

What makes you think people have no grasp on the enormity of the job? Understanding the reason behind a problem doesn't make the problem go away. Being frustrated is an emotional response, it's not like people DECIDE to feel it. Get a grip.

Stop moaning about it then.

[quote][p][bold]gilbertratchet[/bold] wrote:
[quote][p][bold]MPOV[/bold] wrote:
[quote][p][bold]Beetlecrazy[/bold] wrote:
I too was caught up in the traffic for a number of hours. My thoughts and prayers are with the families involved.
What I can't understand is why did the police close the road to catch the horse at 5.30pm then reopen one lane at 6.15pm when it was evident they hadn't found the animal (they were still hunting in the bushes with torches when I passed 2 mins later) only for the motorcyclists (who were at the front of the queue once the road was closed the first time) to head off and then get hit by a horse only 3/4 miles up the road.
I was near the front of the queue on both road closures and can't help thinking that if the Police had conducted a proper search and had not opened the road then maybe the motorcyclists would've made it home safely.[/p][/quote]They were probably only too aware of how much mebers of the public moan about being held up. Therefore, they probably tried to do thebest they could in order not to have to hold up traffic for too long.
The problem is that most people have no grasp on the enormity of the job involved when dealing with and investigating a fatal crash. Luckily for all of you, you didn't have to run to the front of the queue to see or touch anything that no person should ever have to see or touch.
People don't pay enough attention or show enough care when travelling in the right direction, so imagine the chaos if everyone were to turn around and head back the wrong way on a dual carriageway/ motorway. A clear case of dangerous driving to answer I would say!
Maybe after the next fatal crash the Police should just sweep it all to the side and re-open the road to keep us all happy (that was sarcasm!).[/p][/quote]What makes you think people have no grasp on the enormity of the job? Understanding the reason behind a problem doesn't make the problem go away. Being frustrated is an emotional response, it's not like people DECIDE to feel it. Get a grip.[/p][/quote]Stop moaning about it then.MPOV

Beetlecrazy wrote:
I too was caught up in the traffic for a number of hours. My thoughts and prayers are with the families involved.
What I can't understand is why did the police close the road to catch the horse at 5.30pm then reopen one lane at 6.15pm when it was evident they hadn't found the animal (they were still hunting in the bushes with torches when I passed 2 mins later) only for the motorcyclists (who were at the front of the queue once the road was closed the first time) to head off and then get hit by a horse only 3/4 miles up the road.
I was near the front of the queue on both road closures and can't help thinking that if the Police had conducted a proper search and had not opened the road then maybe the motorcyclists would've made it home safely.

They were probably only too aware of how much mebers of the public moan about being held up. Therefore, they probably tried to do thebest they could in order not to have to hold up traffic for too long.

The problem is that most people have no grasp on the enormity of the job involved when dealing with and investigating a fatal crash. Luckily for all of you, you didn't have to run to the front of the queue to see or touch anything that no person should ever have to see or touch.

People don't pay enough attention or show enough care when travelling in the right direction, so imagine the chaos if everyone were to turn around and head back the wrong way on a dual carriageway/ motorway. A clear case of dangerous driving to answer I would say!

Maybe after the next fatal crash the Police should just sweep it all to the side and re-open the road to keep us all happy (that was sarcasm!).

What makes you think people have no grasp on the enormity of the job? Understanding the reason behind a problem doesn't make the problem go away. Being frustrated is an emotional response, it's not like people DECIDE to feel it. Get a grip.

I get the frustration, I get the anger but there is no magic solution, it is what it is. If you understand what the emergency services are trying to do, why start criticising and second guessing? They are trained and qualified to deal with it and yes, sometimes other people are inconvenienced.

It cannot all be scooped up in just one hour.

This is why I believe people aren't getting it...

"they should nt need to close it for that length of time on a main artery to the west"

"No info or instructions from the police during the incident until we were turned back round at 12.50 nor proper statements from them during the incident on local media"

"The M27 was closed westbound from Junction 2/A326, but once the seriousness of the incident became apparent there were no efforts to divert traffic at Junction 1, the Castle Malwood junction etc. until much later in the evening. Then the Police started turning traffic around on the westbound carriageway, rather than use the various junctions, which added to the problem."

"surely the Highways Agency can turn the traffic around and let them get off at the previous junction."

“Accident clearly awful but Hampshire police making situation worse”.

[quote][p][bold]gilbertratchet[/bold] wrote:
[quote][p][bold]MPOV[/bold] wrote:
[quote][p][bold]Beetlecrazy[/bold] wrote:
I too was caught up in the traffic for a number of hours. My thoughts and prayers are with the families involved.
What I can't understand is why did the police close the road to catch the horse at 5.30pm then reopen one lane at 6.15pm when it was evident they hadn't found the animal (they were still hunting in the bushes with torches when I passed 2 mins later) only for the motorcyclists (who were at the front of the queue once the road was closed the first time) to head off and then get hit by a horse only 3/4 miles up the road.
I was near the front of the queue on both road closures and can't help thinking that if the Police had conducted a proper search and had not opened the road then maybe the motorcyclists would've made it home safely.[/p][/quote]They were probably only too aware of how much mebers of the public moan about being held up. Therefore, they probably tried to do thebest they could in order not to have to hold up traffic for too long.
The problem is that most people have no grasp on the enormity of the job involved when dealing with and investigating a fatal crash. Luckily for all of you, you didn't have to run to the front of the queue to see or touch anything that no person should ever have to see or touch.
People don't pay enough attention or show enough care when travelling in the right direction, so imagine the chaos if everyone were to turn around and head back the wrong way on a dual carriageway/ motorway. A clear case of dangerous driving to answer I would say!
Maybe after the next fatal crash the Police should just sweep it all to the side and re-open the road to keep us all happy (that was sarcasm!).[/p][/quote]What makes you think people have no grasp on the enormity of the job? Understanding the reason behind a problem doesn't make the problem go away. Being frustrated is an emotional response, it's not like people DECIDE to feel it. Get a grip.[/p][/quote]I get the frustration, I get the anger but there is no magic solution, it is what it is. If you understand what the emergency services are trying to do, why start criticising and second guessing? They are trained and qualified to deal with it and yes, sometimes other people are inconvenienced.
It cannot all be scooped up in just one hour.
This is why I believe people aren't getting it...
"they should nt need to close it for that length of time on a main artery to the west"
"No info or instructions from the police during the incident until we were turned back round at 12.50 nor proper statements from them during the incident on local media"
"The M27 was closed westbound from Junction 2/A326, but once the seriousness of the incident became apparent there were no efforts to divert traffic at Junction 1, the Castle Malwood junction etc. until much later in the evening. Then the Police started turning traffic around on the westbound carriageway, rather than use the various junctions, which added to the problem."
"surely the Highways Agency can turn the traffic around and let them get off at the previous junction."
“Accident clearly awful but Hampshire police making situation worse”.MPOV

Beetlecrazy wrote:
I too was caught up in the traffic for a number of hours. My thoughts and prayers are with the families involved.
What I can't understand is why did the police close the road to catch the horse at 5.30pm then reopen one lane at 6.15pm when it was evident they hadn't found the animal (they were still hunting in the bushes with torches when I passed 2 mins later) only for the motorcyclists (who were at the front of the queue once the road was closed the first time) to head off and then get hit by a horse only 3/4 miles up the road.
I was near the front of the queue on both road closures and can't help thinking that if the Police had conducted a proper search and had not opened the road then maybe the motorcyclists would've made it home safely.

They were probably only too aware of how much mebers of the public moan about being held up. Therefore, they probably tried to do thebest they could in order not to have to hold up traffic for too long.

The problem is that most people have no grasp on the enormity of the job involved when dealing with and investigating a fatal crash. Luckily for all of you, you didn't have to run to the front of the queue to see or touch anything that no person should ever have to see or touch.

People don't pay enough attention or show enough care when travelling in the right direction, so imagine the chaos if everyone were to turn around and head back the wrong way on a dual carriageway/ motorway. A clear case of dangerous driving to answer I would say!

Maybe after the next fatal crash the Police should just sweep it all to the side and re-open the road to keep us all happy (that was sarcasm!).

What makes you think people have no grasp on the enormity of the job? Understanding the reason behind a problem doesn't make the problem go away. Being frustrated is an emotional response, it's not like people DECIDE to feel it. Get a grip.

I get the frustration, I get the anger but there is no magic solution, it is what it is. If you understand what the emergency services are trying to do, why start criticising and second guessing? They are trained and qualified to deal with it and yes, sometimes other people are inconvenienced.

It cannot all be scooped up in just one hour.

This is why I believe people aren't getting it...

&quot;they should nt need to close it for that length of time on a main artery to the west"

"No info or instructions from the police during the incident until we were turned back round at 12.50 nor proper statements from them during the incident on local media"

"The M27 was closed westbound from Junction 2/A326, but once the seriousness of the incident became apparent there were no efforts to divert traffic at Junction 1, the Castle Malwood junction etc. until much later in the evening. Then the Police started turning traffic around on the westbound carriageway, rather than use the various junctions, which added to the problem."

"surely the Highways Agency can turn the traffic around and let them get off at the previous junction."

“Accident clearly awful but Hampshire police making situation worse”.

I didn't read this.

[quote][p][bold]MPOV[/bold] wrote:
[quote][p][bold]gilbertratchet[/bold] wrote:
[quote][p][bold]MPOV[/bold] wrote:
[quote][p][bold]Beetlecrazy[/bold] wrote:
I too was caught up in the traffic for a number of hours. My thoughts and prayers are with the families involved.
What I can't understand is why did the police close the road to catch the horse at 5.30pm then reopen one lane at 6.15pm when it was evident they hadn't found the animal (they were still hunting in the bushes with torches when I passed 2 mins later) only for the motorcyclists (who were at the front of the queue once the road was closed the first time) to head off and then get hit by a horse only 3/4 miles up the road.
I was near the front of the queue on both road closures and can't help thinking that if the Police had conducted a proper search and had not opened the road then maybe the motorcyclists would've made it home safely.[/p][/quote]They were probably only too aware of how much mebers of the public moan about being held up. Therefore, they probably tried to do thebest they could in order not to have to hold up traffic for too long.
The problem is that most people have no grasp on the enormity of the job involved when dealing with and investigating a fatal crash. Luckily for all of you, you didn't have to run to the front of the queue to see or touch anything that no person should ever have to see or touch.
People don't pay enough attention or show enough care when travelling in the right direction, so imagine the chaos if everyone were to turn around and head back the wrong way on a dual carriageway/ motorway. A clear case of dangerous driving to answer I would say!
Maybe after the next fatal crash the Police should just sweep it all to the side and re-open the road to keep us all happy (that was sarcasm!).[/p][/quote]What makes you think people have no grasp on the enormity of the job? Understanding the reason behind a problem doesn't make the problem go away. Being frustrated is an emotional response, it's not like people DECIDE to feel it. Get a grip.[/p][/quote]I get the frustration, I get the anger but there is no magic solution, it is what it is. If you understand what the emergency services are trying to do, why start criticising and second guessing? They are trained and qualified to deal with it and yes, sometimes other people are inconvenienced.
It cannot all be scooped up in just one hour.
This is why I believe people aren't getting it...
"they should nt need to close it for that length of time on a main artery to the west"
"No info or instructions from the police during the incident until we were turned back round at 12.50 nor proper statements from them during the incident on local media"
"The M27 was closed westbound from Junction 2/A326, but once the seriousness of the incident became apparent there were no efforts to divert traffic at Junction 1, the Castle Malwood junction etc. until much later in the evening. Then the Police started turning traffic around on the westbound carriageway, rather than use the various junctions, which added to the problem."
"surely the Highways Agency can turn the traffic around and let them get off at the previous junction."
“Accident clearly awful but Hampshire police making situation worse”.[/p][/quote]I didn't read this.gilbertratchet

It seems Hampshire's share of the paraffin budgie, with all it's high tech. thermal imaging camera's, or neighbouring Police choppers wasn't used in the initial search for the pony, a bit short sighted?

Then there's the question of the road, why has the M27 not been properly extended through the forest to beyond Wimbourne, the loading of the roads would be enough up North to create a whole task force and employ hundreds if not thousands of people to build it, ah I see, not a vote winner... Especially with the NIMBY's.

Also the question of why the animal grids at Picket Post 'access' side gates, along with those 'personal' gates along the A31 are not better designed to self close as so many lazy people CBA to shut them properly?

Oh and I do hope the broken and missing fencing rails next to the Southern animal grid at Picket Post at 50,51,10.49N 1,43,44.53W as shown on Google Earth street view have been replaced!

Firstly condolences to the families of the motorcyclists.
It seems Hampshire's share of the paraffin budgie, with all it's high tech. thermal imaging camera's, or neighbouring Police choppers wasn't used in the initial search for the pony, a bit short sighted?
Then there's the question of the road, why has the M27 not been properly extended through the forest to beyond Wimbourne, the loading of the roads would be enough up North to create a whole task force and employ hundreds if not thousands of people to build it, ah I see, not a vote winner... Especially with the NIMBY's.
Also the question of why the animal grids at Picket Post 'access' side gates, along with those 'personal' gates along the A31 are not better designed to self close as so many lazy people CBA to shut them properly?
Oh and I do hope the broken and missing fencing rails next to the Southern animal grid at Picket Post at 50,51,10.49N 1,43,44.53W as shown on Google Earth street view have been replaced!Niel

999medic wrote:
Sorry for the loss of life, some of the people should be thankful it wasnt them, so what you got stuck in traffic it delayed you, but your alive, its all to easy to criticise those emergency services involved.

For those stupid idiots who decided to turn themselves around without authorisation your lucky you didnt hit one of the many standing outside their vehicles. All of you grow up and think how lucky you have been to wake this morning.

999 medic: people have lives & responsibilities too.
I got trapped on the M40 . I am a diabetic, I am a carer
There are no phones, no mobile signal, no houses.

[quote][p][bold]999medic[/bold] wrote:
Sorry for the loss of life, some of the people should be thankful it wasnt them, so what you got stuck in traffic it delayed you, but your alive, its all to easy to criticise those emergency services involved.
For those stupid idiots who decided to turn themselves around without authorisation your lucky you didnt hit one of the many standing outside their vehicles. All of you grow up and think how lucky you have been to wake this morning.[/p][/quote]999 medic: people have lives & responsibilities too.
I got trapped on the M40 . I am a diabetic, I am a carer
There are no phones, no mobile signal, no houses.Tony S

So if you trap 1000 cars in a 10 mile queue where there are no houses, no mobile signal. It's true there is no need to keep them informed.

However, no water, no food. How many diabetics are there per 1000? How many pregnant? How many on heart or blood pressure medication. What about people on warfarin,

This is an arrogance , the attitude that shows police think they are above the people, not working for the people.

The old fashioned priorities of the police
1 to preserve life and safety

2 to detect and prosicuted crime

3 to prevent crime

Preserving the safety of people took a second place to the investigation of the scene

So if you trap 1000 cars in a 10 mile queue where there are no houses, no mobile signal. It's true there is no need to keep them informed.
However, no water, no food. How many diabetics are there per 1000? How many pregnant? How many on heart or blood pressure medication. What about people on warfarin,
This is an arrogance , the attitude that shows police think they are above the people, not working for the people.
The old fashioned priorities of the police
1 to preserve life and safety
2 to detect and prosicuted crime
3 to prevent crime
Preserving the safety of people took a second place to the investigation of the sceneTony S

Tony S wrote:
So if you trap 1000 cars in a 10 mile queue where there are no houses, no mobile signal. It's true there is no need to keep them informed.

However, no water, no food. How many diabetics are there per 1000? How many pregnant? How many on heart or blood pressure medication. What about people on warfarin,

This is an arrogance , the attitude that shows police think they are above the people, not working for the people.

The old fashioned priorities of the police
1 to preserve life and safety

2 to detect and prosicuted crime

3 to prevent crime

Preserving the safety of people took a second place to the investigation of the scene

If I was dioabetic I would carry all I am likely to need in my car as unforeseen emergencies do occur. Of course if being diabetic means I am unable to think for myself then perhaps diabetics should not be allowed out of the hospital.

[quote][p][bold]Tony S[/bold] wrote:
So if you trap 1000 cars in a 10 mile queue where there are no houses, no mobile signal. It's true there is no need to keep them informed.
However, no water, no food. How many diabetics are there per 1000? How many pregnant? How many on heart or blood pressure medication. What about people on warfarin,
This is an arrogance , the attitude that shows police think they are above the people, not working for the people.
The old fashioned priorities of the police
1 to preserve life and safety
2 to detect and prosicuted crime
3 to prevent crime
Preserving the safety of people took a second place to the investigation of the scene[/p][/quote]If I was dioabetic I would carry all I am likely to need in my car as unforeseen emergencies do occur. Of course if being diabetic means I am unable to think for myself then perhaps diabetics should not be allowed out of the hospital.Inform Al